Brussels, 16/10/2002 (Agence Europe) - Member States have approved the conclusion on the integration of immigrants in the EU. They reiterated the conclusions of Tampere according to which, "a more energetic policy for integration should aim to offer third country nationals rights and obligations comparable to those for Union citizens…promotion of non-discrimination in economic, social and cultural life and set up measures for fighting against racism and xenophobia". This will not involve harmonisation in the conclusions but information exchanges on integration measures taken "in respect for national law". The Council indicates that the Commission had presented several proposals, notably on the rights for long-stay residents, which it still has not adopted. It also stresses that it is important to develop bilateral integration projects within the EU and find out whether these projects can be funded by the Community. The Commission will soon propose a support programme to networks of associations and bodies active in this field. (EUROPE 14/15 October, p 12 and 12 September p 11).